Week One - Summer - Craft time

Are you ready for a craft project that turns into a game, and just so happens to be adorable?

created by Eat Drink Chic

Over at Eat Drink Chic she has created a Do It Yourself popsicle memory game that is as fun to look at as it is to play. My little man got a kick out of the different popsicles and loved playing the memory game. The best part - you need a printer, popsicle sticks, glue (or double sided tape) and scissors - simple. Eat Drink Chic has more detailed directions if you want your game to be perfect, and possibly used as a cute gift - but we got along fine with folding and cutting. She also is kind enough to include the memory game directions, if you need a refresher.

In order to do this with your kids (and give them all the educational benefits) here are my tips:

1. The popsicles need to be cut out reasonably well - kids just learning to cut will not be able to accomplish this. Draw a square around each popsicle and let your child do the cutting work on the straight lines - then you fold and take care of the details. Although you do not need me to remind you - supervise carefully. Children with scissors can be a danger to themselves, others, and everything near them including pets, drapes, etc. Seriously - those little buggers are quick - keep your eyes open :)

2. Make sure you have the child count each of the pieces you are using (sticks, popsicle papers)

3. Ask them to guess the flavors based on the pictures - no wrong answers, play along if they use their imagination. Ask leading questions: What makes you think it is ____ flavor? What flavor would you pick to eat? What are silly flavors of popsicle? Make sure you add your thoughts. The more you are out there - frogs toes and peanut butter, princess kisses and poison potion - the more they will stretch their minds and the more fun you will have.

4. If you are using glue - let them squeeze (it will make a mess - embrace it)

5. While they are drying, have a popsicle - or make your own :) Popsicle ideas here!

6. Play the game you just made, and enjoy!

Tomorrow the focus will be on movement and songs. I will also put together another way to review this week's site words. I hope you are having fun - and adapting to the new summer schedule. We are getting into the new routine slowly - I am hoping for easier days coming soon! Thanks for reading.